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Beth and I buddy read Brooklyn and Long Island, one after the other. In Long Island, Eilis’s story continues now, years later, living with Tony’s family in Long Island. The beginning of the story starts with quite the bang. It’s included in the synopsis, but I’ll hold off here. That first section where this is dealt with, and before Eilis goes to Ireland, is so absorbing and compelling. I was in awe of how Eilis handles such a difficult situation and how empowered she is to make her stance known to Tony and everyone in the family.

Then, also, there’s the story of Eilis’s return to Ireland, the changing dynamics with her mother, her friend, Nancy, and, of course, Jim. In both books, Eilis’s narrative is deeply personal and intimate. We know her, and perhaps even understand her motivations to an extent. Toibin concludes Long Island with another mic drop. I filled in the blanks, just as with Brooklyn, but I can’t help but hope for another story with Eilis. Beth and I agreed she has to be one of the most charming and well-developed characters in literature. So well-done.

I received a gifted copy.

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